compass safe secure reliable
DRS Open Day 2017 Don’t miss this hugely popular event’s return to Carlisle in 2017. Attended by thousands of locomotion lovers of all ages, DRS’ annual Open Days represent a fantastic day out for all the family. Meet the staff; get a closer look at DRS’ engines, including the revolutionary Class 88; and take in a range of fascinating exhibits and demonstrations. All proceeds will be distributed through DRS sponsorship and donations.
Saturday 22 July 2017 10.00am - 4.00pm DRS Kingmoor, Etterby Road, CA3 9NZ.
ENTRY £5.00
(U16s FREE - must be accompanied at all times), pay at the gate or visit shop.directrailservices.com for advance tickets and the latest Open Day news. Important: Strictly NO parking at the Depot. NO smoking on-site. Sensible footwear to be worn. DRS reserve right of entry.
‘Compass’ magazine is published by Direct Rail Services Limited: Regents Court, Baron Way, Carlisle CA6 4SJ. 01228 406 600 www.directrailservices.com Direct Rail Services is an active member of:
DRS is certificated by the BSI to: ISO 9001 ISO 14001 BS OHSAS 18001
DRS is an Link-Up approved supplier: Number 22772
©2017 Direct Rail Services Limited. Designed/produced by CarneWhitney.com 01228 596 895. Printed on environmentally friendly paper.
Spring 2017/#11 The House Journal of DRS
business compass... W
elcome to this, the eleventh edition of Direct Rail Services’ in-house magazine ‘Compass’. It has been an exciting and busy few months since the last edition. It does seem that I say that every time I am asked to write for Compass or my round up newsletter but long may it be true.
Since the start of the year, we have run eleven workshops across the country, finalised our five year plans, determined our overall company KPIs that we will be measured against by our parent company, held our first DRS Leadership Conference, launched our Leadership Development Programme, scored new business in the form of extensions on both the Virgin Thunderbird contract and Abellio East Anglia’s Class 68 loco hauled coaching set and won the Golden Whistle award for the FORTH consecutive year. In a few weeks time we will be running our Class 88 launch train with over 50 guests from across the industry and 140 fare paying passengers... You could say “is that all?”, but let’s not forget that each of these things is achieved while running our day-to-day operation. That business has consisted of 6,000 services, to 90%+ performance levels since Christmas, almost 400 planned maintenance examinations and many, many reactive maintenance interventions. So we have and are achieving every day in everything we do and we should all be proud of that achievement. Of course there is still lot to do. We need more focus on safety and I hope that the new HSEQ Director will be in post soon and able to take us to the next level in this area. I am hugely pleased to announce that Neil Curtis has been appointed as the Head of Security and Resilience. We must remember that we are a Nuclear First business and this brings with it responsibilities in respect of security that we all need to understand. We must live and breath security no matter what part of the business we are in. We cannot see it as an ‘inconvenience’, it must become part of our daily thinking and jobs. It is paramount for the safety of our staff, families, communities and the wider UK that we take it seriously and accept it as part of our life. We also need to improve the way we operate across our industry. As a rail freight operator, our competition is the road much more so than our fellow freight operators. We need to become smarter as an industry and understand when collaboration will create a better position for us all. I want DRS to lead the way in this and demonstrate to our fellow freight operators how this can work. I look forward to seeing many of you over the coming months and I hope that you are all looking forward to the next year with DRS as much as I am.
Debbie Francis, DRS Managing Director
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Golden Whistle Award! It’s certainly starting to look like DRS are snaffling this highest of all rail freight accolades with monotonous regularity! In fact, it’s been an ANNUAL occurrence now for FOUR years running!
Despite numerous weather-related events such as floods and landslides at Lamington Viaduct, Hexham and the Highland Main Line to name a few causing massive disruption and major challenges to DRS’ reputation for reliability during 2016, we were once again officially recognised as ‘The best Performing Freight Operator’ at the National ‘Golden Whistle’ awards... In fact, even though we operate many different services; nuclear, intermodal and supply chain operations; often on unfamiliar routes and at
varying times, our performance for the year was actually the best yet! DRS achieved an A2F (trains arriving within 15 minutes of booked arrival time) of 91.2%. This is as good - if not better than some passenger services!!!! Neverthelesss, we cannot be complacent as the competition are also improving and DRS were just 1.4% ahead last year. A2F is measured against all DRS services, so a trip of 4 miles from Sellafield to Drigg counts the same as a nuclear train running hundreds of miles to Dungeness; a Daventry-Mossend Tesco train counts the same as a single wagon moving the two miles from Motherwell to Mossend; or an empty wagon or coach out of Longtown. Unfortunately recent weeks have seen a number of our trains missing the A2F mark, with many very short shunt moves adding to the issue. As a result we now have a bit of catching up to do as we are slightly behind the leading operator. Nevertheless I KNOW we are more than capable of making up the lost ground; if everyone does their bit we can ensure we live up to our marketleading ‘safe, secure, reliable’ reputation. It should also be remembered that the benefits of our excellent reliability and punctuality also have a positive impact on our safety and security. If our train services leave on time, they are much less likely to be delayed, avoiding red signals and the risk of being held at vulnerable locations whilst waiting for another path, generating added risks to security. We’re always interested in your ideas on how to further improve services, alternatively if you have any concerns about service performance please contact the Performance Team on 01228 406 462/406 629 or 01270 504 773. Norman Egglestone Head of Performance
Pictured above: The Annual Rail Industry Awards saw DRS pick up its fourth coveted Golden Whistle Award for achieving the best punctuality in the business. Left to right: Paul Mahon - Network Rail , Chris Blunt - Network Rail, Ian Sharp - DRS, Jules Graham - Network Rail, Steve Harper - DRS. Official photograph by: Tony Miles.
VIDEOCONFERENCING
DRS has recently invested in a new video conferencing system. The system is currently installed in Meeting Room 3 at Kingmoor and Evolution in Regents Court. We would encourage people to make use of the conferencing facility rather than travelling between sites... They’re very easy to use; somebody in IT will be only too glad to help; and they will help reduce the safety risks associated with unnecessary travel. Video conferencing will also be rolled-out at Crewe, Motherwell and additional meeting rooms at Regents Court in the next few weeks. There will also be the ability to connect to conferencing your computer or laptop, enabling people to connect from any other location around the country with an internet connection. If you would like to use the system from your desktop, please submit an ICT ticket to
[email protected], copying in your line manager, and we can get you set up. The new system can also connect to external parties, provided they use the SIP protocol. SIP is similar to email in that you simply type the SIP address into the conferencing unit. Again, somebody in IT will be happy to help you get this set up and addresses will be provided for DRS units once the rollout is completed. Whilst there is only limited availability at the moment this will increase in the near future. John Tear, ICT Manager
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DRS Leadership TeamEvent Wednesday 5 April saw DRS management personnel from across the UK meet up for the first ‘Good to Great’ Leadership Conference. Held at the prestigious Halston Hotel in Carlisle, the event saw around forty DRS people arrive to discuss the Company’s bright future. The day included presentations and both group and individual exercises with a focus on: Safety, DRS Leadership Development Programme Launch, Performance and Development Review and DRS Values and Culture. There’s already been some great feedback about the event and the leadership team are now looking forward to attending the next conference which will be held in the Crewe area on October 4.
Really enjoyed the day and I’m very much looking forward to October. Very good time management, venue and the overall administration was excellent. A really good, well planned and executed event - well done!
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Network Rail Supply Chain Operations Additional ‘Hook and Haul’ Bulk Ballast service A new service began to operate between Carlisle and Mountsorrel on 27 February this service operates five days per week conveying ballast to the Carlisle ‘Virtual Quarry’ until further notice. Direct Rail Service are providing the Locomotive, Traincrew and Track Access Planning.
Additional Network trip to the York area A new service began to operate between York Thrall Works and Doncaster LDC from February the occasional ad-hoc trip workings between York Thrall Work and Doncaster Down Decoy has been timetabled to run on a weekly basis with Direct Rail Services providing the Locomotive, Traincrew and track access planning.
East Suffolk Engineering Works Between March and August there is major programme of works upgrading the East Suffolk Branch, Direct Rail Services will be supporting Network Rail with the provision of terminal access at Leiston, Drivers for the conducting of Tamping machines and haulage for the possession services in late July and Early August.
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Thunderbirds are go! Compass is very pleased to report that, building on DRS’ highly successful five year relationship with Virgin Trains West Coast providing Thunderbird rescue locomotives, the Company has signed a further one year agreement in line with Virgin’s recent franchise extension for the provision of the WCML passenger services. DRS will continue to provide three Class 57/3 locomotives which are strategically located at Carlisle, Crewe and Rugby. In addition to this breakdown cover, the service DRS is to provide has been enhanced to also now include the provision of the drivers required to man these locomotives seven days per week. These locomotives and drivers will be required to provide an immediate response to Virgin Trains to assist with rescue and line clearance duties when disruption occurs on the WCML. Pictured: DRS’ Chris Connelly and Tony Bush sign the Company up for a further year of Virgin Thunderbird rescue services.
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procurement department Government Commercial Operating Standards
Procurement of Goods and Services
Next Generation RETB Train Radio Fitment for Class 66s
The key operational standards which define how all government bodies should operate commercially to ensure strong commercial behaviours and getting value for money have recently been revised.
Every item of goods or services procured by DRS requires a series of steps, illustrated in the procurement wheel pictured below, that must take place to ensure they are fit for purpose.
Procurement have recently issued an order for the fitment of next generation RETB Train Radios to locos 66301 to 66305. The DRS engineering team have worked closely with the supplier, Multipulse, to develop a proposal that will see the locomotives fitted with Radio Electronic Token Block, enabling their use on single working lines, such as the North Highlands route.
As a subsidiary of the NDA, these standards also apply to DRS and Procurement are now integrating those standards into the department’s processes.
Responding to Feedback Enhancing Communication Following valuable feedback collected during DRS’ company workshops, the Functional Heads have taken action to further enhance communication within the business. A working group is currently being put together so that ideas on additional ways to improve communication can be considered, enabling agreed solutions to be implemented effectively. We would like the group to be representative of the complete cross-section of DRS employees; therefore the group will be made up of people from different grades, job roles and locations. If you would like to become part of the new ‘communication’ working group, please email
[email protected] as soon as possible. Health & Safety Reps Feedback also indicated that not everyone is familiar with just who their Health & Safety Reps are, we are pleased to introduce them below. If you have any safety concerns you are not able to resolve at your local level, feel free to contact one of our friendly health and safety reps. They will make sure your matter is looked into. If you’d like become a H&S Rep please speak to your line manager then Magda Trafas for further details. Health & Safety Reps, Scotland: Jonathan Melles and Angus Cockburn, Motherwell. Health & Safety Reps, North: Chris Wake and Alan Rogerson, Sellafield. Charlie Birse and Simon Dunn, Carlisle. Health & Safety Reps, South and Midlands: Dave Poynter in London and Dave Hughes in Stowmarket
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The purpose of the standards is to ensure effective and consistent commercial delivery and to drive continuous improvement of that commercial capability. The amended standards cover a variety of benchmarks, such as Resources; Planning; Maximising Competition; Contracting; Contract Management; and finally Supplier Relationships. Supply chain organisations are measured against each of the criteria based on a ‘Good’, ‘Better’, ‘Best’ performance metric and are required to monitor and report on these benchmarks in order to demonstrate meaningful progress towards the ‘Best’ metric.
The procurement team are investing significant energy planning future requirements and forecasting the deliverables to help maximise value for money. Exploring alternative routes to market and looking at developing the tendering process will demonstrate that DRS are transparent and fair in the awarding of contracts. This in turn leads to improved relationships with our suppliers. By managing the contracts currently in place and building on the customer-supplier relationships we have developed enables the Company to benefit from both direct and indirect cost efficiencies. Close analysis of key contracts and suppliers helps us identify where we need to invest more time and effort in order to enhance those contracts and maximise performance.
As with all procurements of this value, the DRS legal team were closely involved in reviewing the supplier’s Terms and Conditions, and getting them amended to protect DRS for the duration of the contract. As a company, we are now also required to include Anti-Slavery, Freedom of Information and Anti-Bribery and Corruption clauses in any contract we enter into. These statutory requirements were also added to the agreed T&Cs. Once fitted, we all now look forward to seeing the Class 66s with updated comms working lines in the far north.
Examples of metrics DRS report against include: n That the department is appropriately resourced and staff are suitably trained.
n That appropriate and proportionate commercial terms are utilised.
Contract Closure
Plan the Procurement
n Comprehensive planning of current and future contacts and commercial activity. n Effective contract management is in place to improve contract performance and subject to regular review. n Strategic suppliers are identified and engaged in regular programmes of activity to improve value through service and cost.
Contract Management
Specification
Contract Award
Government Commercial Function
Market Engagement
Evaluation
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Nuclear News
As an NDA company specifically set up to service the unique demands of logistics for the sector DRS remains totally committed to maintaining its ‘nuclear first-always’ approach to operations.
Direct Rail Services’ new Twenty Year Strategy sets out the ways in which our key nuclear skills and capabilities will be retained and enhanced in support of the NDA. Our Mission is ‘To be the world leader in safe, secure and reliable nuclear rail logistics in support of the NDA mission, harnessing a culture of innovation, pride, respect and environmental awareness whilst providing value for money on behalf of the UK tax payer’. In fulfilling our mission, our objective is to maintain the ‘Security of supply for nuclear transport over the strategic period; this is our primary focus and all other strategic themes support or enable the delivery of this’.
DRS secures Magnox additional contract
DRS’ new FNA-D wagons enter service
MoD relationship continues successfully
Magnox have renewed an important contract with DRS in support of the Harwell programme to transport nuclear material from the Oxfordshire site as part of its wider decommissioning and clearance strategy.
Following extensive pre-service testing by manufacturers, WH Davis, DRS’ further six new FNA-D nuclear flatbed wagons have now entered service in support of the nuclear transport requirements of EDF and Magnox.
Over the past 12-18 months DRS’ activity on the NDA/MoD contract has increased due to the number of programme moves. The exercises and moves which DRS have participated in have all been successfully delivered.
The agreement will see DRS provide a regular multimodal logistics service from the famous nuclear research facility, north to Sellafield utilising DRS’ Berkeley railhead.
These are the second generation of nuclear flatbed stock operated by DRS. Lessons learnt during the extensive use of the old FNA units ensured that the new wagons achieved ideal spec.
DRS’ delivery has been managed through the MOD working group which is made up of DRS employees from all areas of our business; ranging from security and compliance through safety, operations and engineering, to facilities, commercial and production planning.
In developing the agreement, DRS highlighted a key opportunity for Magnox to utilise spare capacity from their Spent Fuel contract for the Harwell shipments. Magnox recognised the significant cost saving potential identified by the DRS team and were delighted to progress with this option. This contract extension further secures the future of the Berkeley Railhead which the NDA have identified as an important strategic railhead location.
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This collaborative approach to project delivery ensures issues are discussed, actioned and decided on at the earliest opportunity; ultimately ensuring that all customer requirements have been met. Chaired by Head of Operations Delivery, Dougie Hill, the group is now planning for future moves during the remaining four years of the contract; always of course driving hard ensure the safe, secure and reliable delivery of this important traffic.
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cumbrian coast news
NuGen Moorside
West Cumbria Mining DRS continue to support West Cumbria Mining (WCM) with their planning application and discussions with Network Rail for the design, development and construction of their proposed rail sidings near the old Marchon Chemical Plant in Whitehaven, as part of the planned coking coal mine pictured left.
DRS
This project is currently gathering a lot of momentum and is generating a lot of local interest. It is currently forecasted that this project will commence construction in 2017. For more information see the West Cumbria Mining website westcumbriamining.com
The Company were tasked with managing Network Rail throughout the Governance of Rail Investment Projects (GRIP) process and have successfully assisted in appointing a site designer to conduct the Option Selection phase for the rail element of the Moorside project.
Burlington Aggregates
have now completed their role as Strategic Rail Advisors on the Moorside nuclear new build project (pictured above) on behalf of Westinghouse Electric Company (WEC).
DRS will look to continue as Strategic Rail Advisors on behalf of WEC and provide further operational input into the development of the Moorside project. If you would like to take a look at the journey so-far, check out the NuGen website nugeneration.com
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At the end of February 2017 Direct Rail Services completed a one-off service on behalf of Burlington Aggregates and Grahams Construction to deliver some 1,400 tonnes of aggregate to the Low Level Waste Repository (LLWR) site at Drigg near Sellafield. DRS are currently continually monitoring requirement for aggregate movements prior to full service commencement.
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Intermodal Update Direct Rail Services have great pleasure in welcoming oilfield lubricant, chemicals, liquids and gas transport specialist Argon to the Grangemouth-Aberdeen service. DRS have already hauled the first twenty three ‘IsoTanks’ on the service, with potential to increase volumes over the coming months. In line with the DRS strategy, which provides strong commitment to intermodal services, we are working closely with existing and new customers to develop new opportunities, further increasing volume commitments and providing greater sustainability for our routes. In addition, in recent months DRS have also been assisting Tesco with a review of their container volumes and routes with the aim of leveraging the potential of existing rail services. We welcome Tesco’s continued commitment to transferring freight from rail to road. The review has focused on maximising volumes on existing contracted services; reducing trunk moves and gaining the full benefit of rail transport. As part of the review, there has been a shift of container volume from the Aberdeen service to maximise use of the Inverness service. While this may temporarily affect the Aberdeen route, we are actively engaged in building replacement volume. While these opportunities are being developed, though traffic may be reduced, DRS will continue to operate the Aberdeen service.
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DRS Staff Workshops
Firstly, I would like to offer my sincere thanks for all the excellent comments, observations and suggestions given so far by those who have already attended the staff workshops. As I write this piece there are still a few people who have yet to attend, but the feedback already supplied is providing some clear pointers towards areas where we can make improvements.
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Generally, the DRS Strategy Summary has been very well received, with numerous positive comments about how clearly it sets out the future direction for DRS... and why. It is planned that these workshop events will take place every year in future, with other supporting events and communication routes being developed to ensure everyone is fully aware of what is happening within DRS. Key Themes The key themes put forward by many have been the need to further enhance our internal communication and IT capabilities. Several projects are now being considered, including issue of new tablets to all train drivers and removal of reliance on the portal. Consideration is being given to the creation of a DRS intranet, as well as making sure that news from every DRS location is covered each edition of Compass.
On that note, please DO provide information to the marketing team in good time to ensure your site gets the coverage it deserves in this magazine. Old Friends On a personal note, it was great to have the chance to meet up again with a few familiar faces at Inverness, as well as getting to know a few new ones at Motherwell. Overall, the overwhelming message I have been getting out of the workshops so-far is to “keep the information flowing and remember to share good news with the rest of the Company”! Norman Egglestone, Head of Performance
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DRS Staff Workshops
Operations Staff Workshops
Operations Risk Reduction Group
Recently the DRS operations team have taken the opportunity to come together during the series of staff workshops that have been taking place around the country. The traincrew element of these workshops has seen some extremely valuable dialogue develop during the interactive sessions.
As reported in previous Compass magazine updates, the group introduced their three year plan ‘2020 Vision’ in January and are now into the delivery stage of the plan’s first year. Some of the year one activities which are already underway include the introduction of a more robust competency management system for Operations Managers. This new system is aimed at providing continuous development for staff in these important roles.
A range of discussions, ideas and mitigation initiatives have been exchanged during operational presentations centred on Nuclear First; the work of the Operations Risk Reduction Group (ORRG); and our current operational risk profile. The traincrew in attendance at the various workshop locations have once again provided some very useful and practical initiatives and ideas on how to reduce our operational risks; once again proving the real value of having the traincrew’s professional ‘view from the coal face’ input during such forums. A few workshops have yet to take place. If for business reasons you were unable to attend, the operational material will also be shared during our interactive days in the weeks ahead. These will ensure you don’t miss out on the opportunity to provide your personal input on how the ways in which you believe we can improve our operations.
The second project now in process is the introduction of a Nuclear First Operational Awareness and Development course. This key course is aimed at traincrew who have had no previous involvement in the operation of nuclear trains. More details will be provided in the coming weeks when the delivery programme is fully approved for roll-out. The ORRG continue to commit to their meetings every Thursday. These are going to be convened at various traincrew locations throughout the year. Where available, operations staff can join the group and play their part in contributing to the discussions on risk reduction/mitigation. This year the group has already met at both Motherwell and York, benefitting from some excellent traincrew input at both sites. Operational Incidents DRS’ current risk profile process has identified that currently we are particularly suffering operational incidents whilst carrying out activities in depots, yards and sidings at slow speed; most recently during light locomotive movements. In response to this recent trend, the ORRG team circulated questionnaires to staff asking for their professional input on what techniques could be adopted to prevent such incidents. We have had a favourable response with some informative and beneficial ideas. Thank you to everyone for their input, it will be put to valuable use in the development of a Safe Operating System Yards Sidings (SOSYS) document. A high percentage of DRS Traincrew’s operational activity surrounds working in yards and sidings, beware of the risks associated with such an environment and... ALWAYS THINK BEFORE YOU ACT. As ever, your professionalism and continued support is key in maintaining our ‘Safe, Secure and Reliable’ service delivery. If you would like to receive further information on safety questions or issues, or have any suggestions of your own please DO get in touch at
[email protected] Remember!... Keep Safe and Risk Ready
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facilities news Crewe Welfare Facilities In the 2016-2017 Capital Budget a requirement to refurbish the external toilets at Crewe was identified. When discussing the project requirements, it was noted that the Fitters’ Locker Room also needed to be refurbished and that a much better use of the space available could be realised. DRS has now upgraded the area, providing the Fitters with twenty new ‘clean’ and twenty ‘dirty’ lockers, giving expansion space to accommodate five extra staff at the site. The project commenced on 13 February 2017 and was completed on-time and within budget on 3 March. The scope of work saw new toilets, doors, windows, sinks, flooring being installed to both ladies’ and gents exterior toilets; whilst lighting was changed to energy efficient LEDs and all electrics were upgraded to meet current regulations; finally, new convector heaters were fitted and the renewed facilities were finished off with a full re-decoration. During the electrical installation, the existing store also had a new Distribution Board installed to meet current regulations, with all the wiring replaced and the lights being upgraded to environmentally-responsible PIR-controlled LEDs.
Regent’s Court Phase 3 The Phase 3 development of the Company’s’ prestigious Regent’s Court Headquarters, pictured right, was completed onschedule and on-budget just before Christmas. The picture shows the ICT projects and facilities area. Admin happily moved into their own new area, there are two new meeting rooms each capable of accommodating eight people, there’s also a four person ‘meeting pod’; a tea point and high level café style seating with a table. The Directors have now moved into what had been the Functional Heads’ offices during Phase 2, whilst in turn the Functional Heads have each relocated into their respective departments. DRS are now investigating upgrades to the exiting building and facilities at the nearby Kingmoor Depot. As soon as we have some agreed plans we will share them with you.
Motherwell Electric Train Heating The new passenger service contract requires coaching stock to be maintained on-site, but must work within noise constraints. The new ETH unit, which is powered from the newly installed site power supply, is connected to a coach using heavy duty leads. This allows the maintenence team to test and identify any issues without the need to run up a loco to provide power. The picture opposite shows a coach in the secure area with red warning lights surrounding the area. Pictured right is the unit itself.
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training roundup A Busy Time
Class 88 Testing
It’s been a busy old period for the Training & Standards Team since the last issue of Compass magazine, here are just a few of the projects that we’ve been working on recently...
As mentioned in the previous article, David has been busy headingup the prestigious Class 88 introduction for the Department.
n The Team has written and submitted a business case for the new Electronic Competency Management System. This will provide all our Operational Assessors with a modern, user friendly platform upon which they can carry out a whole range of valuable Operational Team assessments up and down the country!
This encompasses testing to ensure the implementation is smooth and trouble-free. The first week of the test programme was centred on static testing at Kingmoor... But it was the second week where it got WAY more interesting!
n Training have launched the Operations Managers’ Development Programme to upskill and develop our Operations Management Teams across the regions; providing them with valuable knowledge on assessing, downloading, retrieving and disseminating information collected via the On-Train Data Recorders. It will also show them how to find key info on all National Operating Publications; educate them on wide array of Operational Policies and Procedures... And that’s just for starters! n We’ve developed and filmed (!) a new training programme for the operation of the ‘Dellner’ coupling fitted to Class 57/3s. This will provide our Drivers with the necessary competence to operate the Virgin Thunderbird services. DRS’ John Ball was the Director and Producer of this epic blockbuster, which I’m sure will win a BAFTA at next year’s awards ceremony! n David Crickett has been busy leading on the design, creation and implementation of the Class 88 Training Programme, covered in the next article. n Richard has been busy with the less glamorous side, if perhaps most important, of our departmental tasks - reviewing a whole suite of Operational Standards, Policies, Procedures to ensure they’re up-to-date, fit for our purpose and fully aligned with industry legislation... Thanks Richard! n Anna continues to assist the Training & Standards Team with numerous tasks with quick, professional efficiency. These include creating and updating the European Train Driver Licencing Certificates, issuing various Cab Passes, being the departmental Q-Pulse ‘Super User’ and setting up and facilitating numerous meetings, as well as overseeing departmental plans and agendas - the list goes on and on… She hardly EVER makes the tea though!
The second week gave us a chance to take the Class 88 out on its first run on UK infrastructure. This enabled us to see just how well the locomotive handles, its acceleration performance, braking etc, as well as providing all the technological information that the Stadler/DRS Technicians needed to gather. As the ‘UK Dual’ title of the locomotive suggests, this piece of technological innovation can be powered by either its on-board diesel engine OR from electricity drawn from the overhead wires. The Class 88 has the potential to make us a market leader in terms of operational flexibility. Like modern hybrid cars, the Class 88 also feeds excess power back into the national grid, making it ecologically friendly! Obviously I can leave the fine detail of the ‘UK Dual’s’ selling points to my colleagues in Commercial, but the real stand out feature of this locomotive (this is the Clarkson pitch) is that you can switch between power modes whilst actually on the move!... Needless to say, in the interests of testing rigour I carried out this function on a number of occasions (the Class 88 is not just a toy developed for Training team to play with - honestly!). I’m very pleased to report that switchover is a really straightforward task, and one which could prove a real bonus in out of course situations; especially if there was a problem concerning the Over Head Line equipment... I could wax lyrical about the Class 88 for the remainder of this issue of Compass, but alas I have almost run out of space. I hope you enjoy the pictures of our bouncing new addition to the DRS family! Kieron Bulman Operations Strategy Support & Development Manager
Class 88 Working Group We would like to say a big ‘Thank You’ from the Class 88 Working Group for all your help and assistance in making the UK Dual UK tests happen. The time and effort that everyone put into making these tests a success is very much appreciated. The Working Group has now captured all the test data we need to allow Class 88’s authorisation to progress to the next stage and I am hopeful that authority to bring them into service will be received within the next few weeks.
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training roundup Online Training from ACAS
New Training Courses
The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service offer a number of excellent FREE online courses. A number of DRS employees have already completed this useful training which raises awareness and provides an overview of the subject area.
Following feedback from the recent staff workshops, it has been highlighted that employees are not aware of the types of training and courses that are available to them.
n Managing People: Managing people can be a real challenge for everyone involved in the relationship. In this module, you will be introduced to the skills and behaviours that make an effective manager and explore some of the common issues that they face. The course looks at how you can get the best from your staff through setting proper objectives, giving regular and constructive feedback and managing tasks effectively. The module also introduces the ways to approach those more difficult conversations that are sometimes needed.
Courses that have been booked recently include:
n Performance Management: Do you know what ‘Performance Management’ is? Learn why performance management is vitally important and the roles senior managers, line managers and individuals each play in ensuring the success of a performance management system. This course explores why it’s important to have good objectives and competencies and how they contribute to an effective appraisal system. n Equality & Diversity: Do you know what ‘Equality and Diversity’ actually means? In this module you will see how we can respect each other and respect our differences in the workplace - and why it’s so important to do so. You will also find out what the law says and learn what the ‘protected characteristics’ are within the Equality Act 2010. The course will also show you how to adopt the right approach to equality and diversity in the workplace and will encourage you to think about your policies and procedures and identify whether they are working effectively. n Conflict Management: What is ‘conflict’ and how do you resolve it? This course looks at why conflict resolution is important; the types and causes of conflict; and how to spot the signs of conflict as early as possible. Conflict and disputes are an inevitable part of working life, within this module you will look at case studies on how to resolve workplace conflict and explore the effects it can have on individuals, teams and organisations. You can access this useful FREE training using the following link: elearning.acas.org.uk/ Once you have completed the on-line learning, please email your certificate to
[email protected]
n Excel - Levels 1, 2 and 3 n Word Essentials
n Advanced Word
n NEBOSH Health & Safety n NEBOSH Construction
n Time Management will also be delivered soon First Aiders We are also always keen for people to become First Aiders as well as Fire Wardens. Please remember that for any training to be booked, the Training Department will require a completed Training Request Form to be submitted to
[email protected] (these can be found on Q Pulse). Shadowing A number of employees have expressed an interest in ‘shadowing’. This could be to share experiences; to learn how a task is carried out and understand why things work the way they do; or to understand how departments work or understand specific roles. If you are interested in shadowing, contact your Line Manager to discuss the areas of shadowing you are interested in. For those who would like a bit more information on the benefits of shadowing and preparing for it, contact Cath O’Neil, Training Manager. Innumerable Training Opportunities This are only a small selection of the training that is available. If you are interested in any kind of company-related learning, please contact the Training Department at
[email protected] or alternatively, call 01228 406 600’ Regent’s Court Reception will be happy to direct you.
Passenger News
Engineering News
Chiltern Railways
Kingmoor Depot
DRS’ contract with Chiltern Railways is now into its third year of operation. After a challenging start to the contract which saw our engineering teams learning new things about the fleet of Class 68s every day, we entered a period of consistent performance and relative calmness towards the end of 2016.
In addition to all the normal busy work carried out in the Kingmoor engineering sheds, we have recently commenced a programme of works in conjunction with Stadler and their contractors to fit modified traction gearboxes to every one of the twenty five locos in the Class 68 fleet.
In January and February 2017 a number of unplanned engineering issues threatened to undo some of the exceptional work our engineering teams had done during 2016. However in true DRS style, our ‘proactive, can do’ attitude kicked in with the team often going that extra mile to ensure we fulfilled our contractual obligations. As a result Chiltern Wembley Depot Manager, Gary Hird was very complimentary about our actions and communications during this period, going out of his way to thank John Houghton and his team for all their efforts.
This process involves the removal of the wheelsets from the first loco and their replacement with modified units. The traction gearboxes are then removed from the wheelsets and modified by gearbox supplier, IGW. These amended wheelsets are then fitted to the next loco in line and so-on, until all twenty five have been updated.
While the calm of 2016 seems to have returned over the last month or so, there are still some significant challenges ahead for the DRS Engineering Team, They will shortly be dealing with Gearbox changes, Turbocharger modifications, a replacement primary and secondary spring programme, the roll-out of the TPWS revision E modification and a possible change to the Wembley Depot operation due to remedial terminal wall works due to commence in May 2017. It is a testament to our engineering team that KPI performance actually significantly improved in 2016 compared to 2015, and that, despite the issues in the first weeks of this year and all of the planned engineering works, we fully expect to meet the contracted supply of six locomotives on a daily basis.
Whilst each Class 68 is out of service, manufacturers Stadler are carrying out further modifications to things like the fire protection system. Meanwhile, engine makers, CAT are also making reliability modifications to the engine. Whilst they’re in the shed, Stadler will also be taking the opportunity to renew all the primary and secondary bogie springs on the first fifteen Class 68 locos. ...As a result Kingmoor Depot is currently playing host to engineers from Spain, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, Scotland, Geordieland ...and of course Cumberland! It all makes for a very interesting, highly cosmopolitan depot - and it’s great to see everyone working so successfully together. Pictured: Coach maintenance, Scotrail, Chiltern, the commissioning of Class 88 37/4 Gear box modifications... All happening under one roof -amazing!
Chiltern remain pleased with our performance. Regular technical liaison meetings between DRS and Chiltern ensure the customer maintains a full understanding of any fleet issues that may affect their locomotives and the measures that DRS and the manufacturers are taking to ensure any changes to the fleet run smoothly, making as little impact to the customer as possible. Going forward, we are pleased to welcome the return of Natalie Dicker to the DRS Commercial Account Team that looks after Chiltern following her maternity leave. She’s taken no time at all getting back into her role, further strengthening our relationship with Chiltern Railways. Well done and thank you to everyone involved with the Chiltern Railways account!
Abellio Good news also from the south east where Abellio East Anglia have recently extended the Class 68 loco hauled coaching set until 11 July.
Northern Belle Move In February Northern Belle relocated their operation from Arriva Train Care in Crewe, to the Severn Valley Railway at Kidderminster, this followed negotiations that included DRS with regards to traincrew route knowledge. The ten year deal to move their home depot includes relocation of all of the containerised fridges and spares.
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compass 26
safety review It’s been another positive year where good safety performance has been noted at Direct Rail Services. Every single company safety compliance KPI was not only achieved... But exceeded!
Operational Risk Reduction
Annual Risk Score Reduction Progress
Operational risk ranking target was set as 10% improvement based on 2015/16 target, which come to 151.47. Actual score of 147.19 was achieved, which equals to 12.54% improvement.
Financial Year
Actual score in points
Improvement per-centage
This KPI element also proved to be a good fit for the business allowing DRS to not only identify trends related to its safety performance, but also improve it significantly. Table below shows improvement made within compliance area using Operational Risk Ranking element since its introduction in the 2014/15 Financial Year:
2011/12
*248.7
N/A
N/A
2012/13
*212.5
N/A
14.55
2013/14
*201.9
N/A
4.99
2014/15
187
167.7
16.93
Annual Operational Risk Reduction Progress
2015/16
168.3
149.86
19.86
2016/17
151.47
147.19
12.54
250 Operational Risk Score DRS 2016/17 Target (151.47)
200
* Data obtained by calculation only, as part of proposal for operational risk ranking measure introduction
Consistent Improvement Overall between the Financial Years of 2011/12 and 2016/17 operational risk ranking score has improved by 40.8%. Since introduction of this measure in 2014/15 the level of improvement is noted at 21.3%.
150
Detailed investigations carried out into the events recorded, together with SMART recommendations, as well as work carried out by the Operational Risk Reduction Group (ORRG) are the contributory factors resulting in such a vast improvement.
100
50
Retention of Essential Safety Accreditations
Personal Risk Ranking
Safety and Entity in Charge of Maintenance certifications were successfully renewed during this reporting period, with both certificates being re-issued to Direct Rail Services by the Office for Road and Rail for another five year period.
The Personal Events Risk Ranking target was set to aim for 10% improvement year-on-year; based on data analysis carried out for Financial Years 2012 to 2016, which came to 3.60. We’re very pleased to report that an actual score of 2.51 points was achieved, this represents and excellent 37.25% improvement.
Safety policy has been reviewed and signed by our newly appointed Managing Director, Debbie Francis. Policy content was deemed as current and fulfilling DRS business needs with no changes required.
Target score in points
0
212.5
201.9
167.7
155.7
147.2
2012/13
2013/14
2014/15
2015/16
2016/17
Annual Personal Event Risk Score (PERS) Progress 7
Excellent Track Record in Safety No fatalities occurred and no prosecutions or enforcement actions were served against DRS.
6
‘Personal Events Risk Ranking’ was introduced in the 2016/17 Financial Year and replaced the FWI measure. In order to create initial benchmarking for this new KPI, personal events involving DRS Staff, Contractors and Members of Public, between 2012 and 2016 were analysed and subsequently ranked using an agreed scoring mechanism.
5
The ranking process took into account of all events, including those classed as ‘shock’ and ‘trauma’.
3
New KPI Working for the Business So far, this element of our KPIs has proved to be well understood across the whole of DRS and is proving to be working well. The new KPI is not only increasing awareness of personal accidents and driving improvements within this area, but also focuses attention on continual improvement to the investigation process and DRS’ safety culture as a whole.
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Excluding Shock and Trauma
6.05
Including Shock and Trauma 4.43
4.71 4
3.60 3.02 2.75
2 1 0
Safer Driving
Driving on company business is one of the highest risks for DRS employees. AA Drive Tech online assessments and associated modules are tools contributing significantly towards reducing this risk. You all have a part to play in cutting the risks associated with driving. With this in mind we would like to ask you to complete the online car driver assessment and training modules when you are requested to do so. As a DRS employee, it is your responsibility.
4.20
5.62
3.02
4.00
2.51
2012/13
2013/14
2014/15
2015/16
2016/17
DRS HR in Crewe
A member of the Human Resources team has been, and will continue to be, working in the Crewe Office every Thursday. Please feel free to pop in and speak with them if you have any HR queries. It is recommended that you pre-arrange a time to avoid disappointment since the HR member may be tied up in meetings whilst on-site. To book some time in with them please contact Audrey Lamb, HR Administrator, via email
[email protected] or phone 01228 406 452 set an appointment time and date. HR are normally be based in the large meeting room in the modular building and will send out a weekly reminder to all that we’re there. We look forward to seeing you through the year!
compass 28
perks of thejob
HEALTHSHIELD
Perhaps we don’t send our employees jetting off to the Bahamas for ‘conferences’ all the time, but there are numerous valuable perks that every member of the DRS family benefit from absolutely FREE! By now you should all be well aware of the extensive, heavily subsidised benefits of DRS Healthshield membership, but don’t forget many of those perks can also extend to close family members.
O2 Perks for YOU
DRS Merchandise
ARCO
Because DRS operates an O2 contract, employees can get a discount of as much as 25% off your personal O2 Refresh Airtime Plan*
Don’t forget that as a member of the Direct Rail Services family you get a very generous 50% discount on all company merchandise. There’s also a 10% discount on DRS’ superb models.
As a DRS employee you get a flat 20% discount on all products for personal use from ARCO stores nationwide, simply present your DRS staff ID card.
...And it’s NOT just for your mobile, you can get the same savings on a tablet or mobile broadband device too! To get your discount all you need to do is call the O2 Business Centre on 0800 987 8047 and they’ll talk you through the process. * Subject to terms and conditions
The clothing, gifts and models available at shop.directrailservices.com make great presents - for family and friends. Please note that the lower 10% discount on models reflects the very small margin DRS adds to these items.
With offices throughout the country, ARCO are the leading experts in safety and the UK’s premier supplier of safety equipment, PPE, workwear, safety boots and shoes, gloves and maintenance supplies. Visit arco.co.uk to view the full product range.
A DRS Health Cash Plan with 100%* Cashback?... Now THAT’S a premium perk! As a Healthshield member, everyday healthcare cost you less. This DRS-sponsored scheme gives you three levels of cover, plus cashback on a wide variety of healthcare benefits, many of which are provided worldwide. To view the complete list of special member benefits simply view your tailored membership plan by registering for the Healthshield online Members’ Area. Everyday Cover:
Workplace Ergonomics... Work-related disorders of the soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves and discs can occur through bad posture; heavy, stressful, awkward or repetitive tasks; incorrect use of equipment; or failure to set up the workstation correctly. Stretching is one part of a successful ergonomics program that can help to prevent musculoskeletal pain and discomforts. Stretching allows your body time to recover, relax, and prepare for the next session. Frequent stretching will also help prevent muscles from getting stiff and reduce discomfort.
Dental, including teeth whitening, practice plan premiums (Denplan etc) and plan joining fees. Optical costs including laser eye treatment.
Hospital Cover: Inpatient treatment. Specialist consultation, ECG, X-Rays, Pathology and MRI scans.
Health and Wellbeing: Health and wellbeing. Fitness and exercise.
Peace of Mind Complimentary treatments, including Physiotherapy, Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Acupuncture and Homeopathy.
When it comes to stretching to prevent musculoskeletal damage – shorter, more frequent breaks are preferred over longer breaks.
Health and Legal Counsel: 24/7 Counselling and Support Helpline.
Exclusive Healthshield Perks: Every DRS Healthshield scheme member now has access to exclusive retail discounts and offers through Healthshield’s online Rewards Portal.
n Try and pause to stretch at least once every hour.
n If you feel any body part getting stiff between your stretch breaks, take a moment, and stretch it out. n If it is impractical to take a break for this long, remember that taking a short break, even 30 seconds, is better than none at all.
Please ensure you use your Healthshield annual allowances. For further information on entitlement and associated benefits, please visit the Healthshield website www.healthshield.co.uk
Are you doing enough to improve ergonomics in your workplace? * Up to your chosen annual limit. Subject to annual review. Please refer to your membership for full details about the scheme.
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** This concession excludes the maternity-antenatal appointment and adoption benefit and all benefits connected with maternity, which have a 40 week qualifying period.
EDI
&human resources
Maintaining positive Equality, Diversity and Inclusion credentials is fundamental to the whole business ethos of Direct Rail Services. As a modern, forward thinking company we recognise that EDI is not only our moral duty and statutory responsibility, but that it also makes solid business sense; how can you possibly ensure you have the best people if you do not employ them purely on the basis their suitability for the role?... Whatever their beliefs, race, gender or orientation.
I
n December 2016 DRS commissioned Neil Cockcroft from Capita HR Services to support the Company in developing a Business Case and improvement Plan for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). As part of this Capita met with a cross section of DRS employees through a series of focus groups. The aim of these focus groups was obtaining viewpoints which reflected the spectrum of the current workforce diversity, including representation of both majority and minority perspectives. The discussions were held in both Carlisle and Crewe, but included a number of participants from other sites. Capita have now produced a report, a summary of which is contained below. From their recommendations we will further develop EDI awareness within DRS and reflect this in relation to the policies and processes that we use. The report advises that employee participation in the data-gathering was strong and a healthy crosssection of perspectives was achieved from staff at all levels (without exception), the discussions were open and constructive. Given the current diversity of the DRS workforce, Capita believe that there is a credible business case for DRS to develop a more strategic approach to addressing EDI challenges. Clearly articulating the business benefits for greater focus on and investment in EDI (to stakeholders at all levels) is critical to building commitment. It is important to emphasise that improvements to policies and processes, so that they incorporate EDI best practice, will also need to be accompanied by a degree of culture change. Feedback indicated that positive aspects of DRS culture and its work environment include generally cordial, supportive and respectful interpersonal relations between employees. Taken as a whole, DRS appears in the eyes of its people to be ‘at its best’ when it really needs to be.
There were no examples cited of direct discrimination or inappropriate behaviour such as harassment or bullying, or that victims of such behaviour felt unable to report such incidents because they lacked confidence in the response. However, Capita gained the impression that there is scope for DRS to engage its workforce more fully. Organisational research demonstrates that there is usually a positive correlation between employee engagement and inclusion, whereby individuals from every background feel valued for ‘who they are’ (rather than despite this). In addition, employees who do not feel a need to ‘filter’ their verbal and non-verbal behaviour to accommodate cultural norms and expectations driven by a dominant ‘in-group’, are able and willing to devote more time, energy and focus to job performance. Notwithstanding some frustrations, focus groups suggested an underlying loyalty and positivity amongst many employees towards the DRS brand, and a shared pride in its continued growth and its commercial success DRS was the only company in the NDA estate who captured and provided valuable EDI metrics beyond standard employment data of gender, age and nationality. Capita have encouraged regular updating and reporting of these metrics to key stakeholders. Capita believe it is beneficial to track EDI progress (e.g. in terms of culture change) through the capture of qualitative data which powerfully complements quantitative data. The reporting of credible data is an important foundation of a fit-for-purpose EDI strategy, because this enables effective targeting and prioritisation of EDI initiatives and interventions and then the measurement of their impact. As DRS develops its EDI capability, Capita see value in additional EDI monitoring and reporting at a detailed process level (e.g. gender and other diversity amongst recruitment candidates, new hires and development programme participants, and within talent / highpotential, succession and promotion pools). Tracking and analysis of performance management and reward outcomes with a diversity lens can also support the identification of potential bias in such decision-making, which can then be mitigated. We would like to thank all those employees who took part in the focus groups. The report from Capita has provided valuable data and you will see in the coming months a heightened focus on EDI. We will be asking that employees assist us in the first instance by providing up to date EDI when data protection forms are sent out for completion to our employees. In further months an employee survey will also be issued to all DRS employees, with an aim of gaining even more appreciated data.
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developing future talent
Dream Placement Once again in 2017 DRS joined many of Cumbria’s most exciting and forward-looking employers in playing host to promising young students for a Dream Placement with one of their ideal employers. More than seventy 16-18 year olds from across the county took part this year, our visitors were Ellen Kirkup and Robbie Bell from Trinity School in Carlisle.
In their own words... As Dream Placement applicants we were excited to learn we’d gained a place at DRS, one of the biggest companies in Carlisle and UK leader in rail services. We had both applied to the Dream Placement scheme in the hope of gaining a real insight into how businesses operate, their many departments and the numerous different career opportunities that larger-scale organisations have to offer.
The Commercial Department taught us about the vast range of DRS services which complement the core nuclear focus of the business. The Commercial team also highlighted just how crucial the work of DRS and the wider rail industry are for future of developments in West Cumbria, such as NuGen’s new Moorside Nuclear Reactor and Cumbria Mining’s new coking coal pit at Whitehaven. Ellen Kirkup and Robbie Bell
Our first day at DRS was spent attending introductions to the Company as a whole. We got to attend a meeting of the Functional Heads to see how Senior Managers resolve the challenges they face. Colin Rennison provided us with an introduction to the rail industry. It was striking to find out just how much work goes on behind the scenes to operate rail services. It was invaluable in teaching us about the numerous different services that DRS deliver in addition to the nuclear industry operations for which the Company is best known. Our second and third day were spent with the IT Department. We learned all about the wide range of activities they undertake; from helping employees with technical issues, to designing and maintaining the network, all the while keeping it secure from hacking and espionage. The following day we spent time in the Kingmoor Engineering Shed with Brian Hetherington learning how the Department operates and just what is involved in maintaining rail locomotives. We even got the chance to look around the innovative new Class 88; it really highlighted the huge differences between the latest rail technology and heritage fleet. We also shadowed the Maintenance Fitters, observing their daily tasks. It was also interesting to see the Control Room and how the Operations Department works. Human Resources also gave us some great interview tips and showed us how to make the most of our CVs; helping us to develop them for future employment or university applications and providing us with a crucial skill for the future.
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developing future talent
Mentoring in DRS
Lewis Shearer Lewis has joined DRS on his final six month secondment as part of the NDA’s ‘nucleargraduate’ scheme which involves three secondments at different nuclear-centred companies over a two year period. “Being a nucleargraduate means that I get a broad range of experience across the UK’s nuclear industry in a variety of different roles and company cultures. In the year and a half since graduating I’ve covered the length of England, with placements at Rolls-Royce in Derby and Babcock in Plymouth - now I’m based up at Regents Court” said Lewis.
Would YOU make a great mentor? DRS are encouraging employees to ‘give something back’ by becoming part of an important new mentoring scheme. Support from people who’ve built their knowledge at the ‘coal face’ of DRS operations promises to offer a mature hand up for those who are just starting out in the daunting world of employment. There’s no single blueprint for the perfect mentor – we’re looking for people from all parts of the DRS organisation; from senior executives, through administration to our all-important traincrew and drivers. That said, all great mentors will share some important qualities; by far and away the most important of these is a genuine passion for helping to unlock the real potential of our new team members. Mentors for Apprentices/Graduates We’re currently looking for volunteers to mentor our next intake of apprentices and graduate trainees in September. These mentors will be outside of the line manager/employee relationship, and will provide professional and personal support to the apprentice or graduate under their guidance. Employees who are involved in coaching ‘on the job’, will be given the option to attend special mentoring training.
Spotlight on the Future Dan Rothwell Apprentice Dan Rothwell, pictured left, joined Direct Rail Services’ Kingmoor Depot back in 2015. He’s currently undertaking an apprenticeship in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. Dan says he’s “Always been interested in railways. In fact, since I was 14 I have been involved in The North Yorkshire Moors Railway; helping out with a junior volunteers scheme and, actually any job I can find!” He continued “At DRS my daily tasks could be anything from painting the white lines on wheels to changing cylinder heads. The apprentice scheme is very enjoyable and I attend Carlisle College once per week”. Looking ahead, Dan says “I’m due to finish my apprenticeship in 2019 and would very much like to continue working within the DRS team”.
He continued “The nucleargraduate scheme is quite different from many graduate programmes in that there is a large group of us in the cohort, but we can often be working hundreds of miles away from each other on a day-to-day basis, though there are plenty of chances for us to meet up for training, site visits and conferences. However, being on the scheme isn’t just about what placements we do; there are a number of other aspects that we get involved with, such as going into schools to run STEM events, organising an international visit to investigate the nuclear industry in another country and starting a business to make money for charity.” “My background is in mechanical engineering but, whilst I’m with DRS I’ll be mainly focussed on getting an appreciation of the commercial, financial and organisational aspects of business - though that doesn’t mean I won’t be trying to get down the road to Kingmoor Depot to have a look at all the locos! Since joining the Company in February I’ve spent time in several departments, learning what the company does and what everyone’s roles are. I’d like to thank everyone that I’ve spent time with shadowing for being so helpful and welcoming. I’ll now be getting involved in a number of projects across DRS, including the Sage upgrade and the Leadership Development Programme” he added.
Mentoring Students DRS are currently working with Inspira to develop the possibility of a school student mentoring programme for 14 and 15 year olds. This initiative will see the mentor working closely with local school pupils to help them develop their potential and provide them with an insight into the ‘real’ world of work outside of the rigid student/teacher relationship. Needless to say, in working with young people any volunteer will be required to undergo a DBS check. This promises to be a very rewarding opportunity for those able to dedicated a time on a regular basis for the duration of a school year.
If you are interested in becoming an apprentice, graduate or student mentor, please contact HR for more information. Training will be provided to help you understand your role in this process.
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Family Friendliness Direct Rail Services aims to provide maximum opportunity for every employee, no matter what gender or sexual orientation, to successfully combine the development of a rewarding long-term career with family responsibilities and have developed a comprehensive suite of employment policies specifically to promote that aim. DRS are working closely with the staff representatives for the TSSA and ASLEF to develop a new suite of family friendly policies, a summary of the policies is shown below. We are hoping to have these agreed in the coming months.
Parental Leave
Paternity Leave
The DRS policy on parental leave is in full accordance with the statutory entitlements available in the UK. Parental leave is unpaid time off that is available in addition to paternity leave, maternity leave, adoption leave, shared parental leave and time off to deal with family emergencies.
Paternity leave applies to all employees of DRS, whether full time or part time and is not dependent on the number of hours worked or time working for DRS. The provisions for paternity leave and pay set out in this procedure are available to women as well as men, subject to meeting the qualifying criteria and qualification includes those in same-sex relationships and other situations. Paternity leave applies to parents of both birth children and those individuals who adopt a child.
Maternity Leave This applies to those women who are pregnant or have recently given birth and covers the arrangements for antenatal care, pregnancy-related illness, maternity leave and pay. It applies to all female employees of DRS; whether full or part time and is NOT dependent on the number of hours worked or time with the Company. Starting from as early as 11 weeks before the expected birth date, it can last up to 52 weeks. Maternity leave is also provided for those who have suffered a miscarriage or stillbirth and provides paid leave for a period of at least 24 weeks.
10
years’ service
DRS congratulates the following staff on ten years of loyal service... We look forward to cheering them on when 2027 comes around and they’re on their TWENTIETH anniversary of working with DRS!
Adoption Leave This scheme applies to all DRS employees including those in same sex partners and civil partners, whether full time or part time and is not dependent on the number of hours worked or time with the Company. The entitlements of adoption leave apply to newly matched adoptive parents only, and do not for example include step parents who are adopting their partner’s children. Only one partner may take up adoption leave, whilst the other should take leave under the ‘paternity’ allowance. Flexible Working DRS believes that the promotion of flexible working not only increases staff motivation, performance and productivity, but that it also reduces stress and encourages staff retention by enabling employees to balance their work life with their other priorities. Please contact the DRS Human Resources team for advice and further information on any of these policies.
Kevin Mackintosh Inverness
Rob C Smith Crewe
Gavin Mair Carlisle
Joining Direct Rail Services back in March 2007, Kevin Mackintosh says he’s really enjoyed his ten years of service at DRS.
Rob remembers “Joining DRS felt daunting. Like a family everyone knew one another, even from opposite ends of the country and I wondered if I could fit in. I needn’t have worried. Within days I was drinking in the company of traincrew from Inverness, Bristol, Hull and deepest, darkest Crewe.”
Gavin joined Direct Rail Services as a Trainee Trainman back in 2007. He spent four years in the role before becoming qualified as a Driver six years ago. Gavin says “It has been interesting to see all the development and investment in the facilities and also the new traction and new types of engines being introduced”, adding “I’m looking forward to getting to train on the new Class 88’s in the near future”.
Kevin came to Direct Rail Services from West Coast Railways where he oversaw DRS’ Railhead Treatment Train contract on the Inverness to Perth and Perth to Aberdeen routes. DRS’ RHHT service is responsible for removing those notorious leaves on the line which once wet can become laminated on the rail surface, dangerously reducing traction. After joining DRS, Kevin became a mentor driver, enabling him to pass his extensive experience on to the next generation of DRS drivers. He says he’s also found mentoring an enjoyable and rewarding role too.
Looking back, he added “The expectations on us were high, but so was the support given to reach that expectation... But ten years later I’ve achieved far more than I could ever have expected, and I’ve seen the Company grow and the staff develop with it. Most importantly its been fun. Rock on the next ten years!”
Also celebrating 10 Years at DRS are: Phil Spencer, Crewe and Simon Dunn from Carlisle.
Jim Baxter Crewe Jim Baxter joined Direct Rail Services from South West Trains back in 2007. Having spent most of his time with the Company based at Carlisle, he’s recently moved to Crewe. Jim says he’s now looking forward retirement, just six years away.
Farewell to Andreas Castro... In January we sadly said goodbye to Stadler’s embedded warranty engineer (pictured left in black) after two years working at DRS. We’d like to say a big ‘thank you’ and “Adiós nuestro amigo”.
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&
sponsorship donations
Helping you to help others DRS are continuing to support deserving causes from around the country, providing significant funds to improve the lives of organisations doing important work in the community, as well as children and families in need. If you are planning a charity event or would like to apply for funds on behalf of a charitable cause, please contact 01228 406 525 for a Sponsorships/Donations Application Form.
&
movers shakers
■ BTP Scotland Football Club: Kingmoor’s Mark Flanagan proposed this newly formed football club which was set up by, and for the officers and staff of British Transport Police in Scotland. DRS Contribution towards the costs of kit: £400 ■ Kirkandrews-on-Eden Out of School Club: This popular after school club is regularly attended by several children of DRS employees. Due to personal tech being forbidden, as is now common in schools, they wanted a tablet to enable them to take photos and record information. Simon Price from Regents Court proposed we provide a Club tablet for them to take pictures and record their experiences. DRS contributed £100 towards its purchase.
December 2016 to March 2017
Direct Rail Services is very pleased to welcome a number of new staff to the team. Congratulations also to all the current employees who are taking their next steps in their career development within DRS through transfers and promotions. Finally, best wishes to all our new parents!
New Starters
Leaving the Company
Dean Ritson
Kingmoor Depot
Administration Systems Support
Tony Earl
Carlisle
Train Driver
Rachael Ridley
Regents Court
HR Manager
Robert Semple
Carlisle
Traincrew Leader
Timothy Town
Crewe
Train Planner
Jack Dixon
Carlisle
Admin System Support
Andrew Grundy
Crewe
Service Delivery Manager
Pauline Thompson
Carlisle
Assistant Controller
Lewis Shearer
Carlisle
Nuclear Graduate
Garry Parsons
Crewe
Train Driver
Audrey Lamb
Regents Court
HR Administrator
Kyle Palmer
Carlisle
Communications and Marketing Manager
Graham Stevenson
Grangemouth
Train Person
Laura Pearson
Carlisle
Finance Graduate
Internal Transfers and Promotions Jodie Robinson
Regents Court
Previous Role: HR Administrator
Carmen Bell
Carlisle
Previous Role: Administration Assistant
New Role: HR Officer New Role: Assistant Controller
Rachael Storey
Regents Court
Previous Role: Business Support (Marketing)
New Role: Acting Communications and Marketing Manager
New Arrivals! Congratulations to following staff members on the births of their bouncing new babies! Congratulations go to Richard Casson from Operational Training in Carlisle and his partner on the birth of Luke Richard, weighing 9lb 6.5oz on 24 December 2016. Congratulations go to Rachel Smithson from Business Services, Carlisle and her partner on the birth of Joshua Daniel, weighing 9lb 1oz on 8 March 2017.
■ Carlisle City Football Club Under 15 Team: Carlisle City are a Charter Standard Community Club; the highest level the FA can award; which won the Cumberland Football Association Charter Standard Club of the Year Award in 2008. Paul Roberts from Kingmoor Depot proposed a new kit sponsorship as the lads had outgrown their current strip. DRS Contribution: £422 ■ Torvean Golf Club Charity Golf Event: DRS proposer Kevin Mackintosh, Inverness. Corporate sponsorship of the Club’s event in aid of Motor Neurone Scotland. DRS Contribution: £500
Cheer Force Knights CFK opened their own gym last year and were looking for help to raise funds for equipment. Cheerleading is hugely popular today and is a great way for boys and girls to get fit together and compete as a team. Angela Hoskins from Regents Court proposed a donation towards safety equipment for the young team. DRS Contribution: £200
Congratulations go to James Carr from T&RS, Carlisle and his partner on the birth of Marcia Esmae, weighing 8lb 1.5oz on 10 March 2017.
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compass 38
FOCC devotes its energies to bringing socially and economically disadvantaged children from contaminated areas of Belarus to the UK. The North and West Cumbria branch aims to bring twelve children to Cumbria for a four week respite break, as it has done for the past twenty years. While they’re here, the children eat healthy food, gets lots of fresh air and receive love and care from a kind local family. The organisation also provides a fun programme of activities and return the children home full of hope and positivity for a better future. DRS proposer Jeff Marshall from DRS’ Regents Court offices. DRS Contribution: £1000
Wigton Hockey Club Proposed by Mark Flanagan, Kingmoor, the junior section of the club has grown well and are now short of goal keeping equipment. DRS donation towards a goalie helmet: £150
Wigton Swimming Baths Wigton Swimming Club: Operated by volunteers, Wigton Swimming Club has been teaching and developing children’s swimming abilities for the past 40 years. DRS proposer Mark Flanagan, Kingmoor, highlighted the need for replacement of the club’s swimming aids which are worn out from constant use over a number of years. DRS Contribution: £430
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Wigton Baths’ Trust, Rookie Lifeguards: The Baths Manager and Swim School Co-Ordinator in the Cumbrian market town of Wigton has developed an exciting and diverse timetable. To help recruit more young people she is introducing a Rookie Lifeguard scheme. Following a proposal by Mark Flanagan from Kingmoor Depot, DRS agreed to contribute towards equipment needed for the course. DRS Contribution: £230
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sponsorship donations The Future of Taru
Carlisle Green Room Theatre
This charity sponsors children from this Kenyan town enabling them to attend school.
This Amateur Theatre is based at West Walls, right in the centre of Carlisle.
With the programme growing, there is now a need to build a new school which DRS are donating towards, as well as providing caps and t-shirts. DRS proposer, Magda Trafas, Kingmoor.
In operation since 1952, it is the City’s longest running theatre. It was set up by a small group of amateur thespians who hired a small function room in Carlisle to put on their productions... Some 65 years later they have their own impressive 142 seat theatre and puts on seven productions a year. DRS Regents Court’s Communications and Marketing Manager, Kyle Palmer proposed sponsorship of their annual pantomime.
DRS Contribution: £500
■ Falkirk Victoria Harriers: The ‘Round the Houses’ 10k road race (above) attracts runners of all abilities from all over Scotland, with usually over 1000 participants. Held on 9 April 2017, DRS agreed to sponsor the event following a proposal by John Thomson from Grangemouth. DRS Contribution: £600 ■ Upperby Primary School: The school is currently developing an outdoor area for two reception classes totalling around sixty children aged 4-5 years old. Richard Weir from Kingmoor proposed a contribution towards the cost of a mud kitchen to aid outdoor learning. DRS Contribution: £138
DRS Contribution: £250 ■ Warwick Wanderers AFC: This popular football club has been running football teams for all ages since 1997 at Downagate in Warwick Bridge near Carlisle. The terrible flooding from Storm Desmond, meant that a lot of equipment was lost or damaged. DRS proposer Andrew Casson, Kingmoor. DRS Contribution towards training balls and equipment: £238 ■ Carlisle City Mencap Football Team: DRS will be sponsoring the team’s new kit and equipment following a proposal by Regents Court’s Phil Murphy. DRS Contribution: £1000 ■ Unisun Athletic: Unisun Athletic’s Under 8’s Football Team are pictured below showing off their smart, new DRS-sponsored kit. DRS proposer Brian Hetherington. DRS Contribution: £315
■ Jack Charlton Disabled Anglers’ Association: DRS are again sponsoring this popular annual event at Kielder (above) by paying for the bait. DRS proposer Eddie Pollock from Regents Court. DRS Contribution: £400 ■ Syngenta Juveniles 2000s Football Club: The club organised a sporting and cultural trip to Spain for its Under 17’s team, which saw them compete in the Trofeo Meditteraneo competition over Easter. The trip was organised in recognition of the fantastic contribution these players have made to the club over a number of years; in football terms, for their contribution to helping their local community, and finally for nurturing the talent of younger players by becoming volunteer coaches. DRS are sponsoring a new kit to be used on the trip and when they return. DRS proposer John Thomson, Grangemouth. DRS Contribution: £395 ■ William Howard School: Proposed by Dave McMillan, Kingmoor. The Brampton-based school took 38 girls to Holland during the Easter holidays to play both netball and football. The girls had no kit to play in and were looking for funding to purchase playing tops, football shorts and netball skirts. DRS Contribution: £500 ■ Leighton Academy Primary School: Sponsorship of waterproof jackets, enabling the Crewe school to continue with sporting events. DRS proposer, John Humphries, Crewe. DRS Contribution: £355
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